The Sunday Mail
Online Reporter
A few days after he was crowned the third-best player in the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League for the just-ended season, defender Frank Makarati has dropped the biggest hint that he might stay at Dynamos beyond this year.
Makarati’s contract with DeMbare expires on December 31, and there has been speculation about his future amid strong interest from Chicken Inn and the newly-promoted Simba Bhora.
Simba Bhora will be coached by Tonderai Ndiraya, who has worked with Makarati at Ngezi Platinum Stars, and recently, at Dynamos.
South African First Division side, Black Leopards, Singida FC of Tanzania and Zambian Super League side, Green Buffaloes, are also interested in Makarati.
However, Makarati who was crowned the 2022 Soccer Star of the Year second runner-up at a banquet held in Harare last Friday, has used his social media page to thank Dynamos “for turning a long-time dream into reality.”
“2 790 minutes of sweat and hard work, joy and disappointment this season.
“All the hard work and sacrifices I have made not only in 2022, but in the previous ten years come down to this moment (Soccer Star award), all thanks to the Almighty God,” Makarati wrote on his Facebook page on Wednesday.
“Thanks to everyone at Dynamos for turning a long-time dream into reality. Very proud to have this accolade.”
The star defender gave special mention to Dynamos’ technical staff for developing his play.
Makarati then gave a strong hint he might remain at DeMbare next season.
“To my teammates, well done, we had a great season though we didn’t finish tops. We have another season to do it right.
“Seven million souls (Dynamos supporters), thank you for the support. I don’t remember playing in an empty stadium or silent stadium this season because of your dedication to the team. Let’s continue next season.”
Makarati’s post was liked by Herbert Maruwa, who is largely expected to take over as Dynamos coach.
The 28-year-old centre-back played 31 league games for Dynamos, during which he was crucial at the back, and formed a commendable partnership with skipper, Partson Jaure.
Dynamos had the second-best defensive record, behind champions, FC Platinum, during the 2021/2022 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League season.
They conceded 17 goals, just three worse than Pure Platinum Play.
